Leyton Orient relieves Nolan as manager, will focus on playing

Former Premier League favourite Kevin Nolan has suffered a stuttering start to his coaching career at Leyton Orient, and as such will just focus on his playing duties for the remainder of the campaign.

Nolan was unveiled as the League Two outfit's player-manager in January, but after one point in four games left Orient two points short of the playoffs, Andy Hessenthaler, who was assisting the former Bolton Wanderers, Newcastle United, and West Ham United midfielder at Brisbane Road, was chosen to take the helm.

"Everyone at the Club is fighting hard to make sure we reach the playoffs this season. Whilst that aim remains within reach, we have decided that Kevin should focus entirely on his playing contribution until the end of the season," Orient CEO Alessandro Angelieri said in a statement.

"We believe that Kevin will be able to make a bigger impact on the team without the distraction of managerial duties."

Hessenthaler will attempt to get Orient's promotion bid back on track when nearby rival Dagenham & Redbridge visits Saturday.